New suicide bereavement support service launches for St Helens Borough residents

Article date: 9 September 2026

Commissioned by Champs Public Health Collaborative (CHAMPS) which coordinates public health, community wellbeing, and suicide prevention initiatives across Cheshire and Merseyside, the Martin Gallier Project provides timely, compassionate and barrier-free support for anyone affected by a suicide bereavement.

Accessing help is available through the 'access help' section of The Martin Gallier Project website. Individuals can self-refer, refer a child or young person in their care, or make a referral on behalf of someone else with their consent. Referrals are welcomed from professionals, family members, friends and loved ones.

Following a referral, a member of the Suicide Bereavement Team will contact the individual by telephone within 24 hours to begin a supportive conversation and discuss the most appropriate next steps.

In addition, the Martin Gallier Project has teamed up with Alfie's Squad to deliver an all-age Suicide Bereavement Support Service across Cheshire and Merseyside, ensuring that individuals, children, young people and families affected by suicide can access timely, compassionate and specialist support when they need it most.

St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, Councillor Eileen Fleming, said:

"The Martin Gallier Project and Alfie's Squad have built a strong reputation for delivering compassionate, support across the North West, helping individuals navigate crisis situations and access longer-term wellbeing support, so I'm delighted to see this offer extended to St Helens Borough.

"Suicide has touched my own life personally, and I know the devastating impact it can have on families, friends, and communities. That is why it is so important that people know support is available and that nobody has to face difficult times alone

"World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us that every conversation matters and that support is available for anyone who may be struggling and reflects our commitment as a council in improving mental health, preventing suicide and making sure people can access help at the earliest opportunity."

Professor Rod Thomson, Interim Director of Public Health at St Helens Borough Council, said: "Suicide remains a significant public health issue, with its impact felt across families, workplaces and communities. Suicide prevention is everybody's business and by working alongside partners and communities, we can help reduce stigma, encourage people to seek support and make sure that those experiencing suicidal thoughts know they are not alone."

"Jessica Gallier-Booth, CEO and founder of The Martin Gallier Project, said:

"We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Alfie's Squad to deliver this vital service across Cheshire and Merseyside. Losing a loved one to suicide can have a profound and lasting impact on individuals, families and communities, and it is essential that people are able to access the right support at the right time.

"This partnership allows us to provide true wrap-around support for families, ensuring that children, young people and adults can access compassionate, specialist support that recognises their individual needs and experiences. By bringing together the expertise of both organisations, we can ensure that nobody affected by suicide bereavement should have to navigate that journey alone."

As part of World Suicide Prevention Day, St Helens Borough Council has also arranged for the Steve Prescott Bridge - seen as a beacon of hope for many - to be lit yellow and orange, the official colours of World Suicide Prevention Day.

Residents are encouraged to reach out for support if they are struggling with their mental health or concerned about someone else. Seeking help early can make a significant difference and prevent people from reaching crisis point.

For more information on suicide bereavement support, visit: https://www.sthelens.gov.uk/mentalhealth